Suite 3083 - 595 Burrard Street, P.O. Box 49298, Vancouver B.C. Canada V7X 1L3 Telephone: (604) 689-5564 Fax: (604) 566.9050

www.atlanticgoldcorporation.com info@atlanticgoldcorporation.com

June 12, 2017 Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency Suite 200, 1801 Hollis Street Halifax, NS 63J 3N4 Environmental Assessment Branch Nova Scotia Environment Suite 2085, 1903 Barrington Street PO Box 442, Halifax, NS B3J 2P8 To Whom It May Concern, Atlantic Gold is pleased to continue to move forward the Environmental Assessment of its proposed Beaver Dam Mine Project. Please find enclosed the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) as per the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 and the Environmental Assessment Registration Document (EARD) as per Nova Scotia Environmental Assessment Regulations. The undersigned has signing authority and submits the contents of the EIS / EARD as per the federal and provincial environmental assessment processes. Any correspondence regarding the Environmental Assessment should be directed to the Chief Operating Officer, Maryse Bélanger at 604-689-5564 or mbelanger@atlanticgoldcorporation.com. Sincerely,

Maryse Bélanger Chief Operating Officer

http://www.atlanticgoldcorporation.com/

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia

Prepared on behalf of:

45 Akerley Boulevard Dartmouth Nova Scotia B3B 1J7 Canada

088664 | 12 | Report No 4 | Revised June 12, 2017

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page i

Table ES-1 Table of Concordance

CEAA EIS Guidelines Beaver Dam Mine EIS Report

Section Title Section Title 1. Introduction and Overview 1. Introduction 1,1 The proponent 1.2 Proponent Information 1.2 Project overview 1.1 Project Overview 1.3 Project location 2.1 Project Location

1.4 Regulatory framework 1.3 Regulatory Framework and Role of Government

2. Project Justification and Alternative Considered 1.4 2.6

Purpose of the Project Alternative Means of Carrying Out the Project

2.1 Purpose of the Project 1.4 Purpose of the Project

2.2 Alternative means of carrying out the Project 2.6 Alternative Means of Carrying Out the Project

3.0 Project Description 2 Project Description 3.1 Project components 2.2 Project Components 3.2 Project activities 2.3 Project Activities

3.2.1 Site preparation and construction 2.3.1 Subsections titled “Site Preparation and Construction”

3.2.2 Operation 2.3.2 Subsections titled “Operation and Maintenance”

3.2.3 Decommissioning and abandonment 2.3.3 Subsections titled “Decommissioning and Reclamation”

4. Public Consultation and Concerns 3. Public Consultation and Engagement Program

5. Aboriginal Engagement and Concerns 4. Indigenous Peoples Consultation and Engagement Program

5.1 Aboriginal groups to engage and engagement program 4. Indigenous Peoples Consultation and Engagement Program

6. Effects Assessment 6. Environmental Effects Assessment

6.1 Project setting and baseline conditions 6. Subsections for each VC titled “Baseline Conditions”

6.1.1 Atmospheric Environment 6.1 Atmospheric Environment 6.1.2 Geology and geochemistry 6.2 Geology, Soil and Sediment Quality 6.1.3 Topography and soil 6.2 Geology, Soil and Sediment Quality

6.1.4 Groundwater and surface water 6.3 6.4

Groundwater Quality and Quantity Surface Water Quality and Quantity

6.1.5 Wetlands 6.5 Wetlands 6.1.6 Fish and fish habitat 6.6 Fish and Fish Habitat 6.1.7 Migratory birds and their habitat 6.9 Birds 6.1.8 Species at risk 6.10 Species at Risk 6.1.9 Ecosystems 6.7/6.8 Habitat and Flora/Terrestrial Fauna

6.1.10 Aboriginal peoples 6.11 App B

Indigenous Peoples Summary of Consultation

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page ii

Table ES-1 Table of Concordance

CEAA EIS Guidelines Beaver Dam Mine EIS Report

Section Title Section Title

6.1.11 Other environmental changes arising as a result of a federal decision… 6.14.5 Environmental Effects Incidental of Decisions Made by a Federal Authority

6.2 Predicted changes to the physical environment 6.X.6 Subsections for each VC titled “Project Interactions and Effects”

6.2.1 Changes to the atmospheric environment 6.1.6 Project Activities Interactions and Effects

6.2.2 Changes to groundwater and surface water 6.3.6, 6.4.6

Project Activities and Surface Water Interactions and Effects; Project Activities and Groundwater Quality and Quantity Interactions and Effects

6.2.3 Changes to wetlands 6.5.6 Project Activities and Wetlands Interactions and Effects

6.2.4 Changes to the terrestrial environment

6.2.6; 6.7.6, 6.8.6

Project Activities Interactions and Effects; Project Activities and Habitat and Flora Interactions and Effects; Project Activities and Terrestrial Fauna Interactions and Effects

6.3 Predicted effects on valued components 6.X.6 Subsections for each VC titled “Project Interactions and Effects”

6.3.1 Fish and fish habitat 6.6.6 Project Activities and Fish and Fish Habitat Interactions and Effects

6.3.2 Migratory birds 6.9.6 Project Activities and Birds Interactions and Effects

6.3.3 Species at Risk 6.10.6 Project Activities and Species at Risk Interactions and Effects

6.3.4 Aboriginal peoples 6.11.6 Project Activities and Indigenous Peoples Interactions and Effects

6.4 Other valued components that may affected as a result of a federal decision….

6.X.6 Subsections for each VC titled “Project Interactions and Effects”

6.4.1 Atmospheric environment 6.1.6 Project Activities Interactions and Effects

6.4.2 Water quality and quantity 6.3.6/6.4.6

Project Activities and Surface Water Interactions and Effects; Project Activities and Groundwater Quality and Quantity Interactions and Effects

6.4.3 Wetlands 6.5.6 Project Activities and Wetlands Interactions and Effects

6.4.4 Plants 6.7.6 Project Activities and Habitat and Flora Interactions and Effects

6.4.5 Wildlife 6.8.6 Project Activities and Terrestrial Fauna Interactions and Effects

6.4.6 Health and socio-economic conditions 6.13.6 Project Activities Interactions and Effects

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page iii

Table ES-1 Table of Concordance

CEAA EIS Guidelines Beaver Dam Mine EIS Report

Section Title Section Title

6.4.7 Physical and cultural heritage and structures… 6.12.6 Project Activities Interactions and Effects

6.5 Mitigation 6.X.7 Subsections for each VC titled “Mitigation and Monitoring”

6.6 Significance of residual effects 6.X.8 Subsections for each VC titled “ Residual effects and Significance”

6.7 Other effects to consider

6.15 7 8

Accidents and Malfunctions Effects of the Environment on the Project Cumulative Effects Assessment

6.7.1 Effects of potential accidents or malfunctions 6.15 Accidents and Malfunctions

6.7.2 Effects of the environment on the Project 7. Effects of the Environment on the Project

6.7.3 Cumulative effects assessment 8. Cumulative Effects Assessment

7. Summary of Environmental Effects Assessment 10 Summary of the Environmental Impact Statement

8. Follow-up and Monitoring Programs 9. Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program 8.1 Follow-up program 9.1 Environmental Management Plans 8.2 Monitoring 9.2 Environmental Monitoring Plans

9. Nova Scotia Environment Requirements

- Name of undertaking 1.2 Proponent Information - Location of undertaking 2.1 Project Location

- Proponent information 1.2 Proponent Information and signed letter - Nature of undertaking 1.1 Project Overview - Purpose and need of undertaking 1.4 Project Purpose and Benefits - Proposed schedules 2.5 Project Schedule - Description of undertaking 2. Project Description

- Environmental baseline information 6. Environmental Effects Assessment

- Address public and Aboriginal concerns

3. 4. 6.11

Public Consultation and Engagement Program Indigenous Peoples Consultation and Engagement Program

- List of approvals required 1.3 Regulatory framework and Role of Government - The sources of public funding 1.1 Project Overview

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page iv

Table ES-2 Commonly Used Acronyms

Acronym Expanded Use

AMO Abandoned Mine Opening ANFO Ammonium Nitrate and Fuel Oil AQI Air Quality Index AQHI Air Quality Health Index ARD Acid Rock Drainage CAAQS Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards CCME Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment CEAA Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency CEAA 2012 Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 CEAR Canadian Environmental Assessment Registry CEPA Canadian Environmental Protection Act CFM Cubic Feet per Minute CIL Carbon in Leach CLC Citizen Liaison Committee CO Carbon Monoxide CO2 eq Carbon Dioxide Equivalent Units COSEWIC Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada DFO Fisheries and Oceans Canada EA Environmental Assessment EARD Environmental Assessment Registration Document ECCC Environment and Climate Change Canada EIS Environmental Impact Statement FWAL Freshwater Aquatic Life GDP Gross Domestic Product GHG Greenhouse Gas HRM Halifax Regional Municipality IA Industrial Approval IR Indian Reserve LAA Local Assessment Area MBR Migratory Birds Regulations MCBA Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 MEKS Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Study MMER Metal Mining Effluent Regulations NOx Oxides of Nitrogen NAPS National Air Pollution Surveillance Network NPA Navigation Protection Act, 1985 NPRI National Pollutant Release Inventory NRCAN Natural Resources Canada

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page v

Table ES-2 Commonly Used Acronyms

Acronym Expanded Use

NSAQS Nova Scotia Air Quality Standards NSCCH Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, and Heritage NSDMA Nova Scotia Department of Municipal Affairs NSDNR Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources NSE Nova Scotia Environment NSTIR Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal NWPA Navigable Waters Protection Act, 1985 (repealed) O3 Ozone PA Project Area PM Particulate Matter PM2.5 Fine Particulate Matter PM10 Coarse Particulate Matter RAA Regional Assessment Area ROM Run Of Mine SAR Species at Risk SARA Species at Risk Act, 2002 SO2 Sulphur Dioxide SOCI Species of Conservation Interest TPM Total Particulate Matter TSS Total Suspended Solids USEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency VC Valued Component

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page vi

Table ES-3 Units of Measurement List

Unit Expanded Use

cm/year Centimetres per Year g/t Grams per Tonne ha Hectares HZ Hertz km Kilometre kt Kilotonne kW Kilowatt m Metres masl Metres Above Sea Level mm Millimetres Mt Megatonne pphm Parts per Hundred Million t/y Tonnes per Year t/m3 Tonnes per Cubic Metre µg/m3 Micrograms per Cubic Metre V Volt

Table ES-4 Useful Links

Resource/Document

Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency - Environmental Assessment Registry https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/050/index-eng.cfm Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency - Beaver Dam Mine Project https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/050/details-eng.cfm?evaluation=80111 Nova Scotia Environment Environmental Assessment https://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/ Nova Scotia Environment, Project Documents and Highlights - Surface Gold Mine at Moose River Gold Mines, Halifax County http://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/MooseRiver.asp Environmental Assessment Document for the Touquoy Gold Project, Moose River Gold Mines, Nova Scotia, dated March 2007 http://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/MooseRiver/MooseRiver_Registration.pdf Focus Report, Touquoy Gold Project, Moose River Gold Mines, Nova Scotia, dated November 2007 http://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/MooseRiver/FocusReportTouquoyGoldProject.pdf Environmental Assessment Approval – Touquoy Gold Project, dated February 1, 2008 http://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/MooseRiver/MooseRiver_MinDecisionFinal.pdf

https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=Enhttps://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/050/index-eng.cfmhttps://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/050/details-eng.cfm?evaluation=80111https://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/http://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/MooseRiver.asphttp://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/MooseRiver/MooseRiver_Registration.pdfhttp://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/MooseRiver/FocusReportTouquoyGoldProject.pdfhttp://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/MooseRiver/MooseRiver_MinDecisionFinal.pdf

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page i

Table of Contents

1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Project Overview ................................................................................................................ 1

1.2 Proponent Information ....................................................................................................... 2

1.2.1 Proponent Profile .............................................................................................. 2 1.2.2 Corporate Governance and Management Structure ........................................ 3 1.2.3 Proponent Personnel Details ............................................................................ 6 1.2.4 Environmental Assessment Study Team ......................................................... 6

1.3 Regulatory Framework and Role of Government .............................................................. 7

1.3.1 Federal Regulatory Framework ...................................................................... 10 1.3.1.1 Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 ........................................... 10 1.3.1.2 Fisheries Act, 1985 ......................................................................................... 11 1.3.1.3 Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 ............................................................ 12 1.3.1.4 Species at Risk Act, 2002 ............................................................................... 12 1.3.1.5 Navigation Protection Act, 1985 ..................................................................... 13 1.3.1.6 Federal Guidance Applicable to the Project ................................................... 13 1.3.2 Provincial Regulatory Framework ................................................................... 14 1.3.2.1 Environment Act, 1995 ................................................................................... 14 1.3.2.2 Provincial Guidance Applicable to the Project ................................................ 14 1.3.3 Municipal Regulatory Framework ................................................................... 15 1.3.4 Indigenous Peoples ........................................................................................ 15

1.4 Purpose of the Project ..................................................................................................... 16

1.5 Guiding Principles ............................................................................................................ 17

1.5.1 Planning Tool .................................................................................................. 17 1.5.2 Public Participation ......................................................................................... 17 1.5.3 Indigenous Engagement ................................................................................. 17 1.5.4 Precautionary Approach Application .............................................................. 18

1.6 Benefits of the Project ...................................................................................................... 19

1.6.1 Environmental Benefits ................................................................................... 19 1.6.2 Socio-economic Benefits ................................................................................ 19

2. Project Description ..................................................................................................................... 21

2.1 Project Location and History ............................................................................................ 21

2.1.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site .................................................................................... 21 2.1.2 Haul Road for Transporting Ore ..................................................................... 23 2.1.3 Touquoy Processing and Tailings Management Facility ................................ 23 2.1.4 Ecological Setting ........................................................................................... 24

2.2 Project Components ........................................................................................................ 25

2.2.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site .................................................................................... 25 2.2.1.1 Surface Mine ................................................................................................... 25 2.2.1.2 Mine Site Roads ............................................................................................. 26 2.2.1.3 Material Storage Piles .................................................................................... 26 2.2.1.4 Ore Stockpiles ................................................................................................ 27 2.2.1.5 Operational Facilities ...................................................................................... 27

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2.2.1.6 Water Management ........................................................................................ 29 2.2.2 Haul Roads for Transporting Ore ................................................................... 30 2.2.3 Touquoy Processing and Tailings Management Facility ................................ 32 2.2.3.1 Currently Approved Operations at the Touquoy Mine .................................... 34 2.2.3.2 Touquoy Gold Mine Environmental Assessment ........................................... 35 2.2.3.2.1 Air Quality ................................................................................................... 36 2.2.3.2.2 Noise .......................................................................................................... 36 2.2.3.2.3 Surface Water Quality ................................................................................ 37 2.2.3.2.4 Terrestrial Resources ................................................................................. 37 2.2.3.3 Existing Industrial Approval at the Touquoy Site ............................................ 37 2.2.3.4 Ongoing Operations at Touquoy Facility and Benefits to the Beaver

Dam Mine Project ........................................................................................... 38

2.3 Project Activities ............................................................................................................... 39

2.3.1 Site Preparation and Construction (Year 1) ................................................... 39 2.3.1.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site .................................................................................... 39 2.3.1.2 Haul Road ....................................................................................................... 41 2.3.1.3 Touquoy Processing and Tailings Management Facility ................................ 43 2.3.1.4 Existing Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Requirements

Associated with Construction ......................................................................... 43 2.3.2 Operation and Maintenance (Years 2 to 5) .................................................... 44 2.3.2.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site .................................................................................... 44 2.3.2.2 Haul Road ....................................................................................................... 50 2.3.2.3 Touquoy Processing and Tailings Management Facility ................................ 51 2.3.2.4 Existing Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Requirements

Associated with Operations ............................................................................ 52 2.3.3 Decommissioning and Reclamation (Years 5 to 7 and Beyond) .................... 55 2.3.3.1 Reclamation Objectives and Goals ................................................................ 56 2.3.3.2 Conceptual Reclamation Plan ........................................................................ 56 2.3.3.3 Reclamation Schedule .................................................................................... 59 2.3.4 Greenhouse Gas Emissions ........................................................................... 60 2.3.5 Summary of Changes to Project Activities ..................................................... 60

2.4 Accidents and Malfunctions ............................................................................................. 61

2.4.1 Structural Failures........................................................................................... 61 2.4.1.1 Surface Mine Slope Failure ............................................................................ 61 2.4.1.2 Stockpile Slope Failure ................................................................................... 61 2.4.1.3 Settling Pond Failure ...................................................................................... 62 2.4.1.4 Infrastructure Failure ...................................................................................... 62 2.4.2 Accidents ........................................................................................................ 62 2.4.2.1 Fuel and/or Other Spills .................................................................................. 62 2.4.2.2 Unplanned Explosive Events .......................................................................... 63 2.4.2.3 Mobile Equipment Accident ............................................................................ 63 2.4.3 Other Malfunctions.......................................................................................... 63 2.4.3.1 Forest and/or Site Fires .................................................................................. 63

2.5 Project Schedule .............................................................................................................. 63

2.6 Alternative Means of Carrying out the Project ................................................................. 68

2.6.1 Identification of Alternative Means.................................................................. 68 2.6.2 Mine Type ....................................................................................................... 69 2.6.3 Ore Extraction Methods .................................................................................. 70 2.6.4 Ore Processing Methods ................................................................................ 70 2.6.5 Ore Processing Locations .............................................................................. 71 2.6.6 Ore Transportation.......................................................................................... 72

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page iii

2.6.7 Energy Source ................................................................................................ 73 2.6.8 Project Component Locations ........................................................................ 73 2.6.9 Water Supply and Management ..................................................................... 74 2.6.10 Mine Waste Management Facilities................................................................ 75 2.6.11 The Preferred Approach ................................................................................. 76

3. Public Consultation and Engagement Program ......................................................................... 83

3.1 Objectives ........................................................................................................................ 83

3.2 Engagement Strategy ...................................................................................................... 83

3.2.1 Community Liaison Committee ....................................................................... 83 3.2.2 Open Houses and Town Hall Meetings .......................................................... 84 3.2.3 Presentations and Meetings with Local Community Groups .......................... 84 3.2.4 Newsletters ..................................................................................................... 85 3.2.5 Signage ........................................................................................................... 85 3.2.6 Website, Email and other Digital Media ......................................................... 85 3.2.7 Media and Press Releases ............................................................................. 85 3.2.8 Meetings with Local Residents and Land Owners ......................................... 86 3.2.9 Complaints Response Procedure ................................................................... 86

3.3 Regulatory Consultation ................................................................................................... 86

3.4 Public Engagement Activities .......................................................................................... 87

3.4.1 Community Open Houses .............................................................................. 87 3.4.2 Community Liaison Committee ....................................................................... 88

3.5 Key Issued Raised and Proponent Responses ............................................................... 88

3.6 Ongoing Community Engagement ................................................................................... 91

4. Indigenous Peoples Consultation and Engagement Program ................................................... 91

4.1 Objectives ........................................................................................................................ 91

4.2 Indigenous People in Nova Scotia ................................................................................... 92

4.3 Engagement Strategy ...................................................................................................... 94

4.4 Indigenous Peoples Engagement Activities..................................................................... 95

4.4.1 Community Open Houses .............................................................................. 96 4.4.2 Community Liaison Committee ....................................................................... 97

4.5 Key Issues Raised and Proponent Responses ............................................................... 98

4.6 Ongoing Indigenous Peoples Engagement ................................................................... 101

5. Environmental Effects Assessment Methodology .................................................................... 102

5.1 Scope of the Environmental Assessment ...................................................................... 102

5.1.1 Designated Project ....................................................................................... 102 5.1.2 Factors to be Considered ............................................................................. 104 5.1.3 Scope of Factors to be Considered .............................................................. 104

5.2 Overview of Approach .................................................................................................... 105

5.3 Valued Components Selection ...................................................................................... 106

5.4 Project Boundaries ......................................................................................................... 113

5.4.1 Temporal Boundaries ................................................................................... 113

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page iv

5.4.2 Spatial Boundaries ....................................................................................... 113 5.4.3 Administrative Boundaries ............................................................................ 115 5.4.4 Technical Boundaries ................................................................................... 115

5.5 Standards or Thresholds for Characterizing and Determining Significance of Effects .. 116

5.6 Baseline Conditions ....................................................................................................... 116

5.7 Anticipated Project-Environment Interaction.................................................................. 116

5.8 Effects Prediction ........................................................................................................... 123

5.9 Mitigation Measures ....................................................................................................... 123

5.10 Residual Effects and the Determination of Significance ................................................ 123

5.11 Follow-up and Effects Monitoring .................................................................................. 125

5.12 Effects of the Environment on the Project ..................................................................... 126

6. Environmental Effects Assessment .......................................................................................... 126

6.1 Atmospheric Environment .............................................................................................. 126

6.1.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 126 6.1.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 127 6.1.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 128 6.1.3.1 Ambient Air Quality Standards ..................................................................... 128 6.1.3.2 Preliminary Local Ambient Air Quality .......................................................... 129 6.1.3.3 Regional Ambient Air Quality ........................................................................ 130 6.1.3.4 Baseline Ambient Air Quality ........................................................................ 132 6.1.3.5 Provincial and Federal Greenhouse Gas Limits ........................................... 132 6.1.3.6 Ambient Noise .............................................................................................. 133 6.1.3.7 Ambient Light ................................................................................................ 136 6.1.3.8 Climate and Meteorological Information ....................................................... 136 6.1.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 137 6.1.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 137 6.1.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 137 6.1.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 138 6.1.6 Project Activities Interactions and Effects .................................................... 140 6.1.6.1 Dust and Particulate Emissions .................................................................... 142 6.1.6.1.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site and Haul Road .................................................... 142 6.1.6.1.2 Touquoy Processing Facility .................................................................... 143 6.1.6.2 Greenhouse Gas Emissions ......................................................................... 143 6.1.6.2.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site and Haul Road .................................................... 144 6.1.6.2.2 Touquoy Processing Facility .................................................................... 144 6.1.6.2.3 Overall Project .......................................................................................... 145 6.1.6.3 Noise Emissions ........................................................................................... 145 6.1.6.3.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site and Haul Road .................................................... 145 6.1.6.3.2 Touquoy Processing Facility .................................................................... 146 6.1.6.4 Light Levels ................................................................................................... 147 6.1.6.4.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site and Haul Road .................................................... 147 6.1.6.4.2 Touquoy Processing Facility .................................................................... 147 6.1.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 148 6.1.7.1 Dust and Particulate Emissions .................................................................... 148 6.1.7.2 GHG Emissions ............................................................................................ 150 6.1.7.3 Noise Emissions ........................................................................................... 150 6.1.7.4 Light Levels ................................................................................................... 151 6.1.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 154 6.1.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 157

Beaver Dam Mine Project Environmental Impact Statement Marinette, Nova Scotia | Page v

6.2 Geology, Soil, and Sediment Quality ............................................................................. 157

6.2.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 157 6.2.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 158 6.2.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 159 6.2.3.1 Physiography, Geomorphology, and Topography ........................................ 159 6.2.3.2 Soils and Sediment ....................................................................................... 159 6.2.3.2.1 Sediment Quality – Beaver Dam Mine Site ............................................. 161 6.2.3.2.2 Sediment Quality - Touquoy Site ............................................................. 162 6.2.3.3 Surficial Geology........................................................................................... 163 6.2.3.4 Bedrock Geology .......................................................................................... 163 6.2.3.5 Seismic Activity ............................................................................................. 167 6.2.3.6 Isostatic Uplift and Subsidence .................................................................... 168 6.2.3.7 Landslides, Slope Erosion, and Subsidence Following Project Activities .... 168 6.2.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 169 6.2.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 169 6.2.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 169 6.2.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 170 6.2.6 Project Activities Interactions and Effects .................................................... 170 6.2.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 172 6.2.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 173 6.2.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 175

6.3 Surface Water Quality and Quantity .............................................................................. 175

6.3.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 175 6.3.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 176 6.3.2.1 Project Watersheds Location ........................................................................ 176 6.3.2.2 Surface Water Quality .................................................................................. 177 6.3.2.2.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site and Haul Road .................................................... 177 6.3.2.2.2 Touquoy Processing Facility .................................................................... 178 6.3.2.3 Surface Water Quantity ................................................................................ 179 6.3.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 179 6.3.3.1 Surface Water Features ............................................................................... 179 6.3.3.1.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site ............................................................................. 179 6.3.3.1.1 Haul Road ................................................................................................ 184 6.3.3.1.1 Touquoy Processing and Tailings Management Facility ......................... 192 6.3.3.2 Surface Water Quality .................................................................................. 192 6.3.3.3 Surface Water Quantity ................................................................................ 196 6.3.3.3.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site ............................................................................. 196 6.3.3.3.2 Haul Road ................................................................................................ 200 6.3.3.3.3 Touquoy Processing and Tailings Management Facility ......................... 200 6.3.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 200 6.3.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 201 6.3.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 201 6.3.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 202 6.3.6 Project Activities and Surface Water Interactions and Effects ..................... 203 6.3.6.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site .................................................................................. 206 6.3.6.2 Haul Road ..................................................................................................... 206 6.3.6.3 Touquoy Processing and Tailings Management Facility .............................. 206 6.3.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 208 6.3.7.1 Surface Water Quality .................................................................................. 208 6.3.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 210 6.3.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 214

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6.4 Groundwater Quality and Quantity ................................................................................ 214

6.4.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 214 6.4.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 215 6.4.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 216 6.4.3.1 Hydrogeology ................................................................................................ 221 6.4.3.2 Beaver Dam Mine Site .................................................................................. 222 6.4.3.3 Touquoy Gold Mine ...................................................................................... 224 6.4.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 225 6.4.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 225 6.4.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 225 6.4.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 226 6.4.6 Project Activities and Groundwater Quality and Quantity Interactions

and Effects .................................................................................................... 226 6.4.6.1 Beaver Dam Mine Site and Haul Road ........................................................ 228 6.4.6.2 Touquoy Processing Facility ......................................................................... 229 6.4.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 230 6.4.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 233 6.4.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 237

6.5 Wetlands ........................................................................................................................ 238

6.5.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 238 6.5.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 238 6.5.2.1 Wetland Functional Assessment .................................................................. 240 6.5.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 240 6.5.3.1 Functional Assessment Results ................................................................... 249 6.5.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 287 6.5.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 288 6.5.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 288 6.5.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 288 6.5.6 Project Activities and Wetlands Interactions and Effects ............................. 288 6.5.6.1 Wetland Impacts ........................................................................................... 290 6.5.6.2 Impacts to Groundwater Recharge............................................................... 294 6.5.6.3 Wetland Impact Extent ................................................................................. 295 6.5.6.4 Wetland Avoidance ....................................................................................... 301 6.5.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 302 6.5.7.1 Monitoring ..................................................................................................... 308 6.5.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 309 6.5.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 312

6.6 Fish and Fish Habitat ..................................................................................................... 312

6.6.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 312 6.6.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 313 6.6.2.1 Electrofishing ................................................................................................ 313 6.6.2.2 Fish Collection and Characterization ............................................................ 315 6.6.2.3 Water quality ................................................................................................. 317 6.6.2.4 Aquatic Ecosystem Condition ....................................................................... 317 6.6.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 319 6.6.3.1 Fish Habitat Assessment .............................................................................. 319 6.6.3.2 Electrofishing ................................................................................................ 333 6.6.3.3 Fish Collection .............................................................................................. 341 6.6.3.4 Characterization of Fish Populations ............................................................ 345 6.6.3.5 Water Quality ................................................................................................ 347 6.6.3.6 Aquatic Ecosystem Condition ....................................................................... 350 6.6.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 361

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6.6.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 361 6.6.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 361 6.6.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 362 6.6.6 Project Activities and Fish and Fish Habitat Interactions and Effects .......... 362 6.6.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 377 6.6.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 383 6.6.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 386

6.7 Habitat and Flora ........................................................................................................... 386

6.7.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 386 6.7.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 387 6.7.2.1 Priority Species List Methodology and Desktop Evaluation ......................... 387 6.7.2.2 Habitat Survey .............................................................................................. 390 6.7.2.3 Vascular Plant Surveys ................................................................................ 392 6.7.2.4 Lichen Surveys ............................................................................................. 392 6.7.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 392 6.7.3.1 Habitat .......................................................................................................... 392 6.7.3.1.1 Very Poor Nutrient Regime ...................................................................... 399 6.7.3.1.2 Poor Nutrient Regime............................................................................... 399 6.7.3.1.3 Medium Nutrient Regime ......................................................................... 399 6.7.3.1.4 Rich Nutrient Regime ............................................................................... 400 6.7.3.1.5 Habitat Survey Conclusions ..................................................................... 400 6.7.3.2 Vascular Plants ............................................................................................. 401 6.7.3.3 Lichens ......................................................................................................... 402 6.7.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 403 6.7.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 404 6.7.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 404 6.7.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 404 6.7.6 Project Activities and Habitat and Flora Interactions and Effects ................. 404 6.7.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 409 6.7.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 413 6.7.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 416

6.8 Terrestrial Fauna ............................................................................................................ 416

6.8.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 416 6.8.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 416 6.8.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 417 6.8.3.1 Mammals .................................................................................................. 417 6.8.3.1.1 Mainland Moose ....................................................................................... 418 6.8.3.1.2 Bats .......................................................................................................... 418 6.8.3.2 Herpetofauna ................................................................................................ 419 6.8.3.3 Summary of Fauna and Habitat within the PA ............................................. 419 6.8.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 421 6.8.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 421 6.8.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 421 6.8.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 422 6.8.6 Project Activities and Fauna Interactions and Effects .................................. 422 6.8.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 426 6.8.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 433 6.8.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 436

6.9 Birds ............................................................................................................................... 436

6.9.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 436 6.9.2 Desktop Review ............................................................................................ 437 6.9.2.1 Maritime Breeding Bird Atlas ........................................................................ 437

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6.9.2.2 Important Bird Areas ..................................................................................... 438 6.9.2.3 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 439 6.9.2.4 Fall Migration ................................................................................................ 439 6.9.2.5 Winter birds ................................................................................................... 440 6.9.2.6 Spring Diurnal Raptor Migration ................................................................... 440 6.9.2.7 Spring Nocturnal Owl .................................................................................... 441 6.9.2.8 Spring Migration............................................................................................ 442 6.9.2.9 Breeding Birds .............................................................................................. 442 6.9.2.9.1 Point Counts ............................................................................................. 442 6.9.2.9.2 Common Nighthawk ................................................................................. 443 6.9.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 443 6.9.3.1 Winter Birds .................................................................................................. 451 6.9.3.2 Spring Diurnal Raptor Migration ................................................................... 451 6.9.3.3 Nocturnal Owl ............................................................................................... 451 6.9.3.4 Fall Migration ................................................................................................ 451 6.9.3.5 Spring Migration............................................................................................ 452 6.9.3.6 Breeding Season .......................................................................................... 453 6.9.3.7 Common Nighthawk ..................................................................................... 456 6.9.3.8 Discussion .................................................................................................... 456 6.9.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 458 6.9.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 458 6.9.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 458 6.9.6 Project Activities and Birds Interactions and Effects .................................... 459 6.9.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 465 6.9.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 468 6.9.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 471

6.10 Species of Conservation Interest and Species at Risk .................................................. 471

6.10.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 471 6.10.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 472 6.10.2.1 Priority Fish Survey Methods ........................................................................ 472 6.10.2.2 Priority Vascular Flora Survey Methods ....................................................... 472 6.10.2.3 Priority Lichen Survey Methods .................................................................... 472 6.10.2.4 Mainland Moose Survey Methods ................................................................ 473 6.10.2.5 Bat Survey Methods ..................................................................................... 474 6.10.2.6 Priority Herpetofauna Survey Methods ........................................................ 474 6.10.2.7 Priority Invertebrate Survey Methods ........................................................... 475 6.10.2.8 Priority Bird Survey Methods ........................................................................ 475 6.10.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 476 6.10.3.1 Priority Fish Species ..................................................................................... 476 6.10.3.1.1 Blacknose Dace ....................................................................................... 477 6.10.3.1.2 American Eel ............................................................................................ 477 6.10.3.1.3 Atlantic Salmon ........................................................................................ 480 6.10.3.1.4 Fish SAR & SOCI Summary .................................................................... 483 6.10.3.2 Priority Vascular Flora Species .................................................................... 483 6.10.3.2.1 Wiegand’s Sedge ..................................................................................... 489 6.10.3.2.2 Lesser Rattlesnake Plantain .................................................................... 489 6.10.3.2.3 Southern Twayblade ................................................................................ 489 6.10.3.2.4 Appalachian Polypody ............................................................................. 490 6.10.3.2.5 Highbush Blueberry.................................................................................. 490 6.10.3.2.6 Vascular Flora SAR & SOCI Summary .................................................... 490 6.10.3.3 Priority Lichen Species ................................................................................. 490 6.10.3.3.1 Blistered Jellyskin Lichen ......................................................................... 492 6.10.3.3.2 Blistered Tarpaper Lichen ........................................................................ 493 6.10.3.3.3 Blue Felt Lichen ....................................................................................... 493

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6.10.3.3.4 Boreal Felt Lichen .................................................................................... 493 6.10.3.3.5 Frosted Glass-whiskers Lichen ................................................................ 494 6.10.3.3.6 Peppered Moon Lichen ............................................................................ 494 6.10.3.3.7 Lichen SAR & SOCI Summary ................................................................ 494 6.10.3.4 Priority Terrestrial Mammal Species ............................................................. 495 6.10.3.4.1 Mainland Moose ....................................................................................... 496 6.10.3.4.2 Bats .......................................................................................................... 498 6.10.3.4.3 Terrestrial Fauna SAR & SOCI Summary ............................................... 499 6.10.3.5 Priority Herpetofauna Species ...................................................................... 500 6.10.3.6 Priority Invertebrates .................................................................................... 502 6.10.3.7 Priority Birds ................................................................................................. 505 6.10.3.7.1 Bird species observed within the Project Area ........................................ 506 6.10.3.7.2 Common Nighthawk ................................................................................. 511 6.10.3.7.3 Peregrine Falcon ...................................................................................... 511 6.10.3.7.4 Chimney Swift .......................................................................................... 512 6.10.3.7.5 Olive-sided Flycatcher.............................................................................. 512 6.10.3.7.6 Canada Warbler ....................................................................................... 512 6.10.3.7.7 Rusty Blackbird ........................................................................................ 513 6.10.3.7.8 Barn Swallow ........................................................................................... 513 6.10.3.7.9 Eastern Wood-Pewee .............................................................................. 514 6.10.3.7.10 Bird SAR & SOCI Summary ..................................................................... 514 6.10.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 516 6.10.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 516 6.10.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 516 6.10.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 517 6.10.6 Project Activities and Species of Conservation Interest and Species at Risk

Interactions and Effects ................................................................................ 517 6.10.6.1 Priority Fish Species ..................................................................................... 518 6.10.6.2 Priority Vascular Flora and Lichens .............................................................. 519 6.10.6.3 Priority Terrestrial Fauna .............................................................................. 520 6.10.6.4 Priority Birds ................................................................................................. 522 6.10.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 523 6.10.7.1 Priority Fish Species ..................................................................................... 523 6.10.7.2 Priority Vascular Flora and Lichens .............................................................. 524 6.10.7.3 Priority Terrestrial Fauna Species ................................................................ 524 6.10.7.4 Priority Birds ................................................................................................. 525 6.10.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 526 6.10.8.1 Priority Fish Species ..................................................................................... 527 6.10.8.2 Priority Vascular Flora and Lichens .............................................................. 528 6.10.8.3 Priority Terrestrial Fauna Species ................................................................ 530 6.10.8.4 Priority Bird Species ..................................................................................... 532 6.10.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 534

6.11 Indigenous Peoples ....................................................................................................... 535

6.11.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 535 6.11.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 535 6.11.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 537 6.11.3.1 Historic Mi’kmaq Land and Resource Use ................................................... 540 6.11.3.2 Current Mi’kmaq Land and Resource Use ................................................... 541 6.11.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 542 6.11.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 543 6.11.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 543 6.11.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 544 6.11.6 Project Activities and Indigenous Peoples Interactions and Effects ............. 544 6.11.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 557

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6.11.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 558 6.11.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 562

6.12 Physical and Cultural Heritage ...................................................................................... 562

6.12.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 562 6.12.2 Baseline Program Methodology ................................................................... 562 6.12.3 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 563 6.12.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 565 6.12.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 565 6.12.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 565 6.12.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 566 6.12.6 Project Activities and Physical and Cultural Heritage Interactions and

Effects ........................................................................................................... 566 6.12.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 567 6.12.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 568 6.12.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 571

6.13 Human Health and Socio-economic Considerations ..................................................... 571

6.13.1 Rationale for Valued Component Selection ................................................. 571 6.13.2 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 571 6.13.2.1 Nova Scotia Economic Outlook .................................................................... 571 6.13.2.2 Socio-economic Conditions .......................................................................... 572 6.13.2.3 Infrastructure ................................................................................................. 574 6.13.3 Land and Resource Use ............................................................................... 575 6.13.3.1 Existing Land Use ......................................................................................... 575 6.13.3.2 Land Ownership and Tenure ........................................................................ 575 6.13.3.3 First Nation Land and Resource Use ........................................................... 576 6.13.3.4 Protected Areas, Nature Reserves, and Parks ............................................ 576 6.13.3.5 Tourism and Recreation ............................................................................... 577 6.13.3.6 Natural Resource Use .................................................................................. 577 6.13.4 Consideration of Consultation and Engagement Results ............................. 577 6.13.5 Effects Assessment Methodology ................................................................ 578 6.13.5.1 Boundaries .................................................................................................... 578 6.13.5.2 Thresholds for Determination of Significance ............................................... 579 6.13.6 Project Activities and Health and Socio-economic Conditions Interactions

and Effects .................................................................................................... 579 6.13.6.1 Touquoy Processing and Tailings Management Facility .............................. 583 6.13.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 583 6.13.8 Residual Effects and Significance ................................................................ 584 6.13.9 Proposed Compliance and Effects Monitoring Program .............................. 588

6.14 Assessment of Valued Components within Federal Jurisdiction ................................... 588

6.14.1 Environmental Effects within Federal Jurisdiction ........................................ 588 6.14.2 Environmental Effects on Federal or Transboundary Lands ........................ 591 6.14.3 Environmental Effects on Indigenous Peoples ............................................. 591 6.14.4 Power or Duty by Federal Authority.............................................................. 592 6.14.5 Environmental Effects Incidental of Decisions Made by a Federal Authority 593

6.15 Accidents and Malfunctions ........................................................................................... 594

6.15.1 Assessment Methodology ............................................................................ 595 6.15.2 Hazard Identification ..................................................................................... 596 6.15.3 Structural Failures......................................................................................... 596 6.15.3.1 Surface Mine Slope Failure .......................................................................... 596 6.15.3.2 Stockpile Slope Failure ................................................................................. 600

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6.15.3.3 Settling Pond Failure .................................................................................... 602 6.15.3.4 Infrastructure Failure .................................................................................... 605 6.15.4 Accidents ...................................................................................................... 608 6.15.4.1 Fuel and/or Other Spills ................................................................................ 608 6.15.4.2 Unplanned Explosive Event .......................................................................... 611 6.15.4.3 Mobile Equipment Accident .......................................................................... 613 6.15.5 Other Malfunctions........................................................................................ 617 6.15.5.1 Forest and/or Site Fires ................................................................................ 617 6.15.6 Risk Assessment .......................................................................................... 620 6.15.7 Discussion .................................................................................................... 624

7. Effects of the Environment on the Project ................................................................................ 624

7.1 Environmental Considerations ....................................................................................... 624

7.1.1 Extreme Weather .......................................................................................... 625 7.1.1.1 Flood and Drought Conditions ...................................................................... 625 7.1.1.2 Extreme Temperatures, Storms, and Wind .................................................. 625 7.1.1.3 Lightning Strikes ........................................................................................... 626 7.1.2 Climate Change ............................................................................................ 626 7.1.3 Slope Stability ............................................................................................... 626 7.1.4 Seismic Events ............................................................................................. 627

7.2 Mitigations ...................................................................................................................... 627

7.3 Residual Effects ............................................................................................................. 629

8. Cumulative Effects Assessment ............................................................................................... 629

8.1 Regulatory Framework ................................................................................................... 629

8.2 Cumulative Assessment Methodology ........................................................................... 629

8.2.1 General Approach......................................................................................... 629 8.2.2 Identification of the Valued Components that will constitute the Focus of

the Cumulative Effects Assessment ............................................................. 630 8.2.3 Determining the Spatial and Temporal Boundaries ...................................... 630 8.2.4 Identification, Selection and Description of Projects in the Area Past,

Present and Future Physical Activities ......................................................... 631 8.2.5 Baseline Conditions ...................................................................................... 631 8.2.6 Identification and Assessment of the Cumulative Effects ............................ 632 8.2.7 Mitigation and Monitoring ............................................................................. 632 8.2.8 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 632 8.2.9 Follow-up ...................................................................................................... 632

8.3 Identification of the Valued Components ....................................................................... 633

8.4 Identification of Projects in the Area .............................................................................. 638

8.4.1 Past Physical Activities ................................................................................. 638 8.4.1.1 Past Mining Operations within the Beaver Dam Mine Project Area ............. 638 8.4.1.2 Past Forestry Operations .............................................................................. 638 8.4.2 Present Physical Activities ............................................................................ 639 8.4.2.1 Touquoy Gold Project ................................................................................... 639 8.4.2.2 Current Regional Forestry Operations ......................................................... 639 8.4.2.3 Port of Sheet Harbour ................................................................................... 639 8.4.2.4 Cooks Brook Sand and Gravel Pit ................................................................ 640 8.4.2.5 ScoZinc Ltd. .................................................................................................. 640 8.4.2.6 National Gypsum .......................................................................................... 640 8.4.2.7 Murchyville Gypsum Quarry ......................................................................... 641

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8.4.2.8 Tangier Gold Mine ........................................................................................ 641 8.4.2.9 Dufferin Gold Mine ........................................................................................ 641 8.4.2.10 Taylor Lumber Co. Ltd. ................................................................................. 641 8.4.2.11 Great Northern Timber ................................................................................. 642 8.4.2.12 Gaetz Brook Wind Farm ............................................................................... 642 8.4.3 Future Physical Activities (Certain, Reasonably Foreseeable or

Hypothetical) ................................................................................................. 642

8.5 Cumulative Effects Assessment of the Valued Components ........................................ 645

8.5.1 Atmospheric Environment ............................................................................ 645 8.5.1.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 645 8.5.1.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 645 8.5.1.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 646 8.5.1.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 649 8.5.1.1.4 Cumulative Effects on the Atmospheric Environment .............................. 650 8.5.1.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 650 8.5.1.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 650 8.5.1.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 651 8.5.2 Surface Water Quality and Quantity Cumulative Effects Assessment ......... 651 8.5.2.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 651 8.5.2.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 651 8.5.2.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 653 8.5.2.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 654 8.5.2.1.4 Cumulative Effects on the Surface Water Quality and Quantity .............. 655 8.5.2.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 655 8.5.2.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 656 8.5.2.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 656 8.5.3 Groundwater Quality and Quantity Cumulative Effects Assessment ........... 656 8.5.3.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 656 8.5.3.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 656 8.5.3.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 657 8.5.3.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 658 8.5.3.1.4 Cumulative Effects on the Groundwater Quality and Quantity ................ 659 8.5.3.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 659 8.5.3.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 659 8.5.3.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 660 8.5.4 Wetlands Cumulative Effects Assessment ................................................... 660 8.5.4.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 660 8.5.4.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 660 8.5.4.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 661 8.5.4.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 662 8.5.4.1.4 Cumulative Effects on the Wetlands ........................................................ 666 8.5.4.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 666 8.5.4.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 666 8.5.4.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 666 8.5.5 Fish and Fish Habitat Cumulative Effects Assessment ................................ 667 8.5.5.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 667 8.5.5.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 667 8.5.5.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 670 8.5.5.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 671 8.5.5.1.4 Cumulative Effects on the Fish and Fish Habitat ..................................... 671 8.5.5.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 671 8.5.5.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 671 8.5.5.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 672 8.5.6 Habitat and Flora Cumulative Effects Assessment ...................................... 672

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8.5.6.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 672 8.5.6.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 672 8.5.6.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 673 8.5.6.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 674 8.5.6.1.4 Cumulative Effects on the Habitat and Flora ........................................... 675 8.5.6.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 675 8.5.6.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 675 8.5.7 Terrestrial Fauna Cumulative Effects Assessment ...................................... 676 8.5.7.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 676 8.5.7.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 676 8.5.7.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 677 8.5.7.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 678 8.5.7.1.4 Cumulative Effects on the Terrestrial Fauna ........................................... 679 8.5.7.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 680 8.5.7.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 680 8.5.7.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 680 8.5.8 Birds Cumulative Effects Assessment .......................................................... 680 8.5.8.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 680 8.5.8.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 680 8.5.8.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 681 8.5.8.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 682 8.5.8.1.4 Cumulative Effects on Birds ..................................................................... 683 8.5.8.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 683 8.5.8.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 683 8.5.8.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 684 8.5.9 Species of Conservation Interest and Species at Risk Cumulative Effects

Assessment .................................................................................................. 684 8.5.9.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 684 8.5.9.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 684 8.5.9.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 688 8.5.9.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 689 8.5.9.1.4 Cumulative Effects on the Species of Conservation Interest and

Species at Risk ........................................................................................ 690 8.5.9.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 692 8.5.9.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 692 8.5.9.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 692 8.5.10 Indigenous Peoples Cumulative Effects Assessment .................................. 692 8.5.10.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 692 8.5.10.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 692 8.5.10.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 694 8.5.10.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 695 8.5.10.1.4 Cumulative Effects on Indigenous Peoples ............................................. 696 8.5.10.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 697 8.5.10.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 698 8.5.10.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 698 8.5.11 Human Health and Socio-Economic Conditions Cumulative Effects

Assessment .................................................................................................. 698 8.5.11.1 Analysis of Effects ........................................................................................ 698 8.5.11.1.1 Baseline conditions .................................................................................. 698 8.5.11.1.2 Effects of Proposed Project ..................................................................... 699 8.5.11.1.3 Effects of Other Projects in the Area ........................................................ 699 8.5.11.1.4 Cumulative Effects on the Human Health and Socio-Economic

Conditions ................................................................................................ 699 8.5.11.2 Mitigation ...................................................................................................... 700 8.5.11.3 Residual Cumulative Effects and Significance Assessment ........................ 700

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8.5.11.4 Follow up and Monitoring Programs ............................................................. 700

8.6 Cumulative Effects Summary......................................................................................... 700

9. Summary of Compliance and Effects Monitoring Programs .................................................... 702

9.1 Environmental Follow-Up Program ................................................................................ 702

9.2 Environmental Monitoring Plans .................................................................................... 705

10. Environmental Impact Statement Summary and Conclusions ................................................. 713

10.1 Summary of the Environmental Impact Statement ........................................................ 713

10.2 Conclusions of the Proponent ....................................